Digital work in state government does not happen in isolation. Every website update, social media post, accessibility fix, or new digital tool reflects decisions made by people across agencies who are navigating similar challenges, priorities, and constraints. The NYS Digital Innovation Lab was created to bring those people together.
Launched by the NYS Digital Service, the Digital Innovation Lab is a bi-monthly forum designed to support collaboration across agencies. The innovation labs create space for staff to share ideas and best practices, discuss real-world challenges, and learn from one another’s experiences. At its core, the goal is simple: to strengthen how digital services are delivered by connecting the people doing the work.
The first Digital Innovation Lab was held in November 2025 and brought together 113 colleagues from 36 agencies. The session focused on digital accessibility, government service delivery, and shared challenges teams encounter in their day-to-day work. Rather than a traditional presentation, the labs emphasized interactive discussions and activities that encouraged open conversation and peer learning.
A key part of the model is listening. Following the November session, participants were asked to share feedback about what worked, what felt most relevant, and what they wanted to explore next. All respondents reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the session, and all found the topics relevant, with many noting they were highly relevant to their work. Participants also offered thoughtful input on future topics and formats, which directly shaped the design of future labs.
The next NYS Digital Innovation Lab will take place on February 3, 2026, and will focus on social media and digital campaigns. This session will explore how agencies can use these tools thoughtfully and effectively to reach New Yorkers, share information clearly, and support service delivery goals. New York State employees interested in attending can RSVP.
The Digital Innovation Lab is an evolving space, shaped by the people who participate. New York State employees can stay involved by signing up for future labs and submitting topic ideas through the feedback form. Materials from previous sessions are also available for anyone who wants to learn more or revisit the conversations.
By creating time and space for connection, the Digital Innovation Lab supports a simple but powerful idea: when we learn from one another and design digital work together, we build services that are clearer, more accessible, and more responsive to the needs of New Yorkers and to the teams who serve them.